University governance in the 21st Century: Perspectives from the institution, society and the global environment

Introduction: This article addresses university governance as a key element in the management of higher education institutions in the 21st century. The objective is to analyze the paradigm of institutional university governance through a multidimensional methodology. Specifically, the study aimed to evaluate dimensions and variables such as academic autonomy, institutional social responsibility, digitalization, and sustainability. Methods: The qualitative methodology of bibliographic review of academic sources indexed in Scopus, Web of Science, SciELO, and Redalyc databases allowed for the comparison and critique of studies on the subject from Latin America and Europe within the period from 2010 to 2024. Results: The findings suggest that successful governance is compatible with autonomy management under transparency, performance accountability, and social responsibility. Digitalization and sustainability are considered mechanisms to promote equal and quality access to education, particularly regarding data protection policies and user equity. Conclusions: Ultimately, effective university governance in the 21st century is integrated into dynamic, evolving, and adaptive approaches to technological and social transformation. The results of this research assist policymakers in the sector in formulating public policies and strategies that strengthen the institutional mission’s core structure, ensuring that university actors serve as fundamental agents alongside institutions in building and promoting equitable and sustainable societies.